The Almost Missed Cameo of Lucy Lawless in 'Spartacus'

In an unexpected twist, Nick Tarabay reprises his role as the cunning Ashur, resurrected in Spartacus: House of Ashur, with Lucy Lawless Lucretia facilitating his return. Lawless brief but pivotal cameo in the series premiere, airing Friday, December 5, was teased in advance to thrill fans.

Creators Steven S. DeKnight and Tarabay shared with TV Insider that having Lawless set up the spinoff was crucial. DeKnight also revealed that scheduling conflicts nearly prevented her cameo from happening.

The series, set in Capua, plunges viewers into a brutal reimagining of Ancient Rome. Ashur, once defeated, now emerges as Dominus, master of his own House. Motivated by vengeance and ambition, he rises from betrayal and carnage to establish the House of Ashur in a world filled with violence, desire, and shifting loyalties.

Previously, Ashur was killed by Naevia (Cynthia Addai-Robinson) at the conclusion of Spartacus: Vengeance. The opening of House of Ashur shows him in the afterlife, moments after his death, confronted by a bloodied Lucretia holding Ilithyias (Viva Bianca) infant. She offers Ashur a chance to return to life in an alternate reality where he survives Vesuvius and ends Spartacus (Liam McIntyre) rebellion. Without hesitation, Ashur accepts and is thrust back into the living world.

It was absolutely vital. Ashur and Lucretia were intertwined in that season of Vengeance, and shes the reason he lost his head, DeKnight explained. Bringing her back was essential to launch this new series.

DeKnight also noted the cameo was nearly impossible due to scheduling conflicts, saying, For about a month, we werent sure she would be available, and doing it without her would have been very difficult. Seeing Lucy back in that role was thrilling.

Tarabay added, Shes wonderful, and having her was crucial for launching us. Were incredibly grateful to have Lucy with us.

The legendary Xena: Warrior Princess star appears only in this single scene, but it serves as the catalyst for the entire series, exploring what Capua might have become if Ashur had triumphed over Spartacus rebellion.

Spartacus: House of Ashur, Two-Part Series Premiere, Friday, December 5, 9/8c, Starz

Author: Sophia Brooks